Liverpool’s off-field tension grew even sharper after Arne Slot unexpectedly skipped the Northern Football Writers’ Association awards ceremony, despite being named Manager of the Season. His absence has only intensified questions surrounding the pressure he is currently facing at Anfield.
McAllister Steps In for Slot
Journalist Lewis Steele revealed on X that Slot was originally scheduled to attend the event but chose not to appear. Representing the club instead was Liverpool ambassador and former midfielder Gary McAllister, who collected the award on the manager’s behalf.
Speaking to reporters, McAllister said:
> “I know Arne will be honoured to receive this award… it’s unfortunate he couldn’t be here, but I’m pleased to stand in for him.”
His appearance — and Slot’s deliberate decision to stay away — has been widely interpreted as a sign of how seriously the manager is treating Liverpool’s current slump.
“Hard to Understand What’s Gone Wrong”
McAllister also addressed the team’s worrying form this season, telling Sky Sports News that even with strong summer recruitment, the squad has not yet clicked as expected:
> “It’s tough to explain how it’s unravelled this quickly. The signings looked excellent in theory, but after 12 matches, things just haven’t gelled.”
His comments echo the growing concerns across the club, especially after Liverpool’s 3–0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest — a rare and damaging result at Anfield.
Signs of Pressure from Above
Club chairman Tom Werner was spotted at Anfield during the Forest loss, a presence that insiders say reflects the seriousness with which ownership is monitoring the situation.
Meanwhile, pundits including Martin Keown continue to argue that Slot deserves time to steady the ship, even as the pressure mounts.
Liverpool’s Struggles Deepen
The defending champions now sit 11th in the league table with only 18 points from their first 12 games — a stark contrast to last season’s title-winning form.
Slot’s decision to remove himself from the public eye, Werner’s increased visibility, and senior voices urging patience all underline one thing:
Liverpool are treating the situation with urgency, though not panic.
As the season presses on, Slot’s challenge will be translating last year’s success into immediate solutions — and proving that his focus on fixing Liverpool’s form is more important than collecting individual honours.
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